Blog - Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center

Why Does My Leg Hurt?

January 24th, 2012

There many potential reasons why that your leg hurts. But if there is no mechanism of injury or trauma to the involved leg you should be concerned. You may have a deep venous thrombosis (DVT). This refers to a blood clot embedded in one of the major deep veins of the lower legs, thighs, or pelvis. A clot blocks blood circulation through these veins, which carries blood from the lower body back to the heart. The blockage can cause pain, swelling, or warmth in the affected leg. Blood clots in the veins can cause inflammation called thrombophlebitis. Severe complications of deep vein thrombosis occur when a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream, causing blockage of blood vessels in the lung. Called pulmonary embolism, this can lead to severe difficulty in breathing and even death, depending on the degree of blockage.

In the United States, about 2 million people per year develop deep vein thrombosis. Most of them are aged 40 years or older. Up to 600,000 are hospitalized each year for the condition. Deep vein thrombosis can lead to a more serious complication; blood clots in the lung (pulmonary embolism). Statistics reveal that at least 650,000 persons die each year from a pulmonary embolism, making it the third most common cause of death in the United States.

People who sit for long periods of time on a regular basis have a two-to- threefold increased risk of developing a potentially deadly blood clot in their lungs.

Sudden shortness of breath, severe chest pain and coughing that may produce blood are among the symptoms of pulmonary embolism, in addition to excessive sweating, fainting and weak pulse.

For instance, Olympic athletes who took trips from Europe to Australia were found to have deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Recently, tennis star and fashion mogul, Venus Williams, had pulmonary embolism. This goes to show it does not matter the condition of health you are in, you still could be susceptible to a DVT.

It is recommended that one take a baby aspirin before long-haul travels described as lasting more than eight hours. Certainly it is recommended to at least get up and walk around the aircraft cabin and do calf muscle exercises on a regular basis while traveling.

This is no joke. If you have leg pain, the most important thing you can do is schedule an appointment at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP with locations in Howell, Edison, and Monroe NJ. We have the latest diagnostic tools to diagnose your conditions including a potential deadly DVT.

By Valerie Gregory, MSPT

Winter Woes: Chilblains On Your Toes

January 11th, 2012

Hopefully you have found the right winter shoes and put your flip flops and sandals away. Winter is here and this season has its own set of foot problems. Unfortunately, cold weather can be harder on the feet for people with conditions like poor circulation and diabetes. These conditions can make it harder for you to know when your feet are too cold. This is why it is important for you to bring your winter shoes with you to Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP when you have an appointment before it gets cold. Your podiatrist knows your feet and can let you know if your shoes have the right kind of support to keep your feet warm and dry.

Chilblains are a common cold weather foot problem. Chilblains are small, red, itchy swellings on the skin. They are caused when the skin is exposed to cold weather for long periods of time. In the cold, the blood vessels in your toes get smaller in size. When your toes get warm again, the blood vessels go back to their normal size. If your toes get warm too fast, blood can leak out of the blood vessels and cause the redness, swelling, blistering, and pain associated with chilblains. Chilblains usually form on the smaller toes, but they can also develop on areas of the feet that carry more pressure — the same areas where bunions, corns, and calluses form.

Chilblains can be a simple podiatric problem. They can be treated and cleared up within a few weeks. The first thing you should do to prevent chilblains is to be sure you are keeping your feet covered and warm when you are outdoors. When you return home, do not rush to heat your feet. Do not dip your feet in a warm foot bath or use a heated blanket. If you have a fireplace, do not warm your feet by placing them close to the fire. Let your feet warm up little by little. Try walking around the house a bit or gently massage your feet with your hands to warm them.

As said before, chilblains can be treated. There are lotions and creams that your podiatrist can prescribe to get rid of the redness and itchiness. If not treated correctly, chilblains can become a bigger problem. If you do not take care of the problem, chilblains can lead to ulcers. Ulcers are serious issues for diabetics and patients with poor circulation. If an ulcer becomes infected, the situation becomes very dangerous. Thankfully, the Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center has three locations (Howell, Edison, and Monroe, NJ) where you can schedule an appointment for treatment or get more information about proper foot care and foot wear during the winter.

We all could use a long vacation on a tropical island right now. The truth is that most of us won’t be spending any time in the tropics this winter. Do yourself a favor and pay extra attention to your feet, especially if you have circulation problems. Keep your feet healthy in the winter and you will be ready to enjoy the warmer weather when it comes.

By Dr. Alison DeWaters

Understanding Morton’s Neuroma; Dr. Varun (Ben) Gujral Discusses…

January 2nd, 2012

Is this familiar to you? You are wearing one of your favorite pairs of high heels or oxfords and suddenly you feel a burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes begin to sting and you feel as if you can barely walk. As soon as you get to work you kick off your shoes, hoping to get some type of relief. If this is happening to you, you may have what podiatrists call Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma occurs when there is a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves going to your toes. The nerve most affected is the one between your third and fourth toes. When you look at your foot, you may not see anything strange, but you definitely feel the pain! There is a sharp, shooting, or burning pain in the ball of your foot. It may also feel like you are standing on a pebble or that there is a fold in your sock. You may experience tingling between your third and fourth toes and toe cramping. Your pain may feel better when you take your shoes off, but mostly the pain gets worse over time.

Podiatrists do not know the exact cause of Morton’s neuroma, but irritation to the nerve seems to play a role. There are many ways that the nerves in your feet can become irritated. High heels or tight shoes can put pressure on your toes. Activities such as running can injure the nerve and cause irritation. Also, foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, and high arches can increase the risk of developing Morton’s neuroma.

There are some things you can do to relieve pain, such as icing the painful area, but the most important thing you can do is schedule an appointment at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center with locations in Howell, Edison, and Monroe, New Jersey. Once you have been diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma. Your podiatrist may try different types of treatments. Some treatments commonly used are:

Padding and taping the toe area
Using special shoe inserts
Wearing wider shoes
Using medicine to block the affected nerve
Using anti-inflammatory pills or injections to relieve pain

If the tissue over the nerve is really thick, your podiatrist may also suggest surgery. You may think that you can deal with the problem yourself, but remember pain from Morton’s neuroma tends to get worse with time. Without the help of a podiatrist, the pain may become so bad that it is difficult to do daily activities such as walking or driving.

It is hard to change your flat feet or high arches, but there are some things you can do prevent Morton’s neuroma. Instead of buying those heels that look like the ones Lady Gaga wears, just admire them from a distance. The pain in your wallet and the pain in your foot may not be worth it!

By: Varun (Ben) Gujral, DPM

What is Core Stability? Valerie Gregory, MSPT, CKTP Discusses…

December 12th, 2011

Why do athletes have so many injuries? They are in better shape than a hypotenuse triangle and most can out-run an antelope. Most injuries occur from repetitive stress on the body, which causes muscular imbalances within the body. Many athletes are unaware that they have any imbalances and have no symptoms.

Being a Physical Therapist at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP with locations in Howell, Edison, and Monroe, New Jersey for the past 4 years, I have found out the majority of people (not only athletes) do not know the importance of core stability. Injuries are commonly attributed to poor biomechanics and errors in training methods.

Athletes should also consider the cumulative effect that thousand of repetitive motions have on their bodies. I always recommend for children to play different sports for that same reason. Even with good biomechanics and excellent training, athletes are always exposed to a considerable amount of repetitive trauma. It is advisable to be aware of preventative methods.

What is core stability?

The core of your body is where you derive your power; it provides the foundation for all arm and leg movements. Your core must be strong and flexible in its movements to achieve maximum performance.

Core stability is not just about strengthening your abdominals to show a six-pack. Most of the muscles are deep within your torso and start from the hip and go right up to the neck. They connect the pelvis, spine, and shoulders. When strong they can generate powerful movements with the arms and legs, but when an imbalance occurs so can injury.

Training for long hours does not guarantee that you have core stability. Spending too much time working within one plane of motion often creates core imbalances. Many athletes will do gym work to strengthen areas of weakness but the core is complex and works in many planes of movement. Unfortunately, many weight machines only work through one plane of motion.

Exercises to increase your core strength (perform 1 set of 10 reps of each exercise and build up slowly to 2 sets)

Superman pose – can be done lying face down or on all fours, stretching opposite arm to leg

Bridging – lying on floor perform pelvic tilt and abdominal push down first then raise bottom off floor, can be advanced to high platform or one leg.

Basic sit-up – pelvic tilt and abdominal push down with crunch at the end

Plank – facing the floor pelvic tilt and tighten abdominals raise self on to elbows and toes hold position keeping back straight and lengthening.

Pelvic tilt and abdominal push down can be used as a strengthening exercise by placing small towel or cushion under lower back and push into towel/cushion and hold for 5-10 seconds. The spine should flatten.

Stretches to increase the flexibility of your core (hold each stretch for at least 10 seconds and perform 2-3 times)

Knee to chest – lying on your back bring one knee to chest and repeat with other leg, then repeat taking both knees to chest. This can be further advanced to straight leg raise using a towel or belt.

Hip rotation – lying on your back, knees bent feet flat on the floor slowly drop knees to one side and then the other.

Awakening– lying on your back arms above head stretch as long as you can

Childs pose – start in the kneeling position sitting on your heels, slowly lower your chest to the floor and stretch your arms out in front as far as you can

Cat/Cow pose – position yourself on all fours curve spine upwards like a cat holding for 10 seconds and then curve spine downwards like a cow.

Performing these poses and stretches everyday can help build your core strength. Stretching and strengthening the core is essential in keeping the body in balance and injury free.

By: Valerie Gregory, MSPT, CKTP

The Big Bag Theory: Is Your Heavy Bag Hurting Your Feet?

December 4th, 2011

With the arrival of winter, trendsetters are excited to see the styles that will be popular this season. Clothes are important, but do not forget about the bag! Whether you carry a luxury designer purse or a classy more affordable purse, one thing is clear – it better be big. From celebrities to college students, one of the most popular purse choices is the large tote. As purses get bigger, they also get heavier. Recently on his TV show, Dr. Oz weighed the bags of the women in his audience. One woman’s purse weighed almost 15 pounds! Can you imagine carrying a 15 pound bowling ball with you as you went about your daily activities? Well, this is what some women do every day. Inside of a typical heavy bag you may find an iPad, phone, book, wallet, magazine, extra shoes, lunch or snacks, toys for children, makeup, medication, and whatever else may fit. No doubt these women are well prepared, but their heavy purses may be causing health problems.

Weeks of carrying a 15 pound purse can cause shoulder pain, but the problem does not stop there. Most women like carrying their bag on a particular shoulder. If your bag is too heavy, you may find yourself walking with a lean to the right or to the left. Center of gravity is important in walking. If everyone were perfect, we would all walk with an equal amount of weight placed on both on each of our feet. No one is perfect and obesity, back problems and foot problems can cause you to place more weight on one side of your body. Because your center of gravity is thrown off, instead of walking with your feet straight, your feet may begin to turn inwards. This process is called pronation. Foot pronation can cause calluses, bunions, and a loss of the foot arch. Some people have feet that naturally turn inwards. Orthotics and foot surgery can help treat this problem. However, getting rid of a heavy purse is a simple thing you can do to stop your feet from pronating too much.

If you just can’t say goodbye to your large tote just yet, here are a few ideas to keep your feet feeling as good as possible.

1) Carry only what you NEED. Leave the heavy gadgets at home.

2) Wear comfortable shoes. A heavy bag and high heels are a bad combination and can increase

your risk of foot problems.

3) Try a tote with a strap that you can wear across your chest. These ‘cross body’ bags may be a

bit smaller, but they are better at equaling out your center of gravity between your feet.

The next time you have an appointment at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP, ask your podiatrist about your center of gravity and how a heavy bag can be causing you foot problems. With locations at Howell, Edison, and Monroe, NJ, you are sure to find a podiatrist who can answer your questions and give you more advice on how to strengthen your center of balance. Your podiatrist may even give you advice on a smarter, but stylish bag to carry this season!

By: Varun (Ben) Gujral, DPM

Are You Committing SHOEACIDE Like Victoria Beckham?

November 18th, 2011

I found a celebrity foot fetish site and no…I don’t have a foot fetish. There is beautiful Victoria Beckham with some significant foot complications. I mean bunions, hammertoes and ill-fitting shoes. Bunions and hammertoes are painful, but shoes that do not fit well cause pain in the feet.

Poor fitting shoes cause the toes to “curl” in the shoes and over time, the toes can stay in a contracted position and cause the hammertoes to develop. Hammertoes are toes that are contracted at the “knuckle” or in medical terms ….the proximal interphalangeal joint and sometimes, a clawtoe toe deformity can develop and this occurs at the distal interphalangeal joint. With the toes that are contracted, the joints can develop hardened skin known as corns. This is caused by poor fitting shoes and the contracted toes are rubbing on the underside of the shoes and can cause severe discomfort as well as the “corns.” If you look at Victoria Beckham’s feet, specifically the shoe pictures, the toes are just curling in those bad heels.

Some of the treatments for hammertoes are shoes with a better fit, paddings on toes, steroid shots to reduce inflammations and surgical correction. My opinion is that hammertoes are a boney deformity and one should fix the problem. Now, do not make the assumption that I just want to cut. Bone does not reduce with lotions, creams, and voodoo. The bone is the problem….So you decide because you are only committing SHOEACIDE….

Now, not all hammertoes are caused by poor shoes. It can be cause by certain medical conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Septic arthritis and Stroke. So, if get evaluated for any orthopedic condition, just keep this in your thought that your overall health can contribute to the hammertoe condition.

So, if you are committing SHOEACIDE, please have your feet evaluated for hammertoes and other painful orthopedic conditions at Affiliated Foot and Center, LLP, with locations in Howell, Edison, and Monroe, NJ. To make an appointment online visit our appointment request page or call our Howell office at (732) 905-1110 and our Edison or Monroe offices at (732) 662-3050.

By: Dr. Jasen Langley, DPM

Attention Children (and Parents) of Howell; WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!

November 15th, 2011

Each year, there are families in and around our area that do not share the joy and happiness that we are so fortunate to have on the holidays. Together, we can make a difference for these less fortunate families, and you, the children of Howell, can do it by becoming one of “Howell’s Little Elves”. By doing this, you will be directly supporting the “Toys to Share Joy” collection efforts in Howell. Every year, a group of dedicated volunteers organize this program sanctioned by township officials to collect gifts for hundreds of less fortunate families in Howell. With the challenges of our local and national economy, the list of those in need grows and is just the reason we are starting the holiday collection now. Thousands of gifts are needed so ensure a special holiday season for those we are reaching out to help. So, for the children of Howell, and the parents reading this announcement that can encourage their children to participate, please see below how you can make a difference in the lives of others:

You (Howell’s Little Elf) must be 10 years or older.
Email gkbutkus@optonline.net or call (732) 682-4257 to request the number of fliers for you to hand out to homes around your neighborhood (do not be shy; we will give you all you need). These fliers will be asking your neighbors to donate a new, unwrapped toy for the less fortunate in Howell by leaving it on their front porch or stoop on Saturday, 12/3 at 2:00pm or Sunday, 12/4 at 2:00pm.
Pick up the fliers you requested from Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP located at 4645 Route 9 North in Howell (732-905-1110). (Just past Applebee’s and across highway from Young’s Appliance) ***Extra fliers will always be available to pick up at this location
Hand the fliers out to homes throughout your neighborhood by Tuesday 11/29 (or before Thanksgiving if possible).
On both Saturday, 12/3 and Sunday, 12/4 at 2:00pm or after, pick up the gifts left on the porches or stoops of the houses you gave a flier (we strongly recommend a parent go with you to collect).
Once the gifts are collected, drop off to Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 5:00pm or Saturday from 9:00am – 11:00am. All gifts must be dropped off by Thursday 12/8. Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP is located at 4645 Route 9 North in Howell.
Smile and be proud of yourself that you have made the holidays a joyous time for others.

The holidays are a time to join together, where families unite and joy is shared among many. As children, you look forward to these times and by becoming one of “Howell’s Little Elves”, you can bring joy and laughter to another child or family member right here in your own back yard. For questions about the program, please email gkbutkus@optonline.net or call (732) 682-4257. For more information about the “Toys to Share Joy” collection efforts, please visit www.howellholidaygiveaway.com.

Beyond the Movies: Protecting Your Feet from Bacterial Infections

November 7th, 2011

Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon, and Kate Winslet star in a new movie called Contagion. This movie is about a virus that causes a deadly disease. Doctors and scientists of the world struggle to deal with disease outbreak as it quickly spreads from person to person. If you keep up with the news, you know that scientists have done a good job at creating medications, vaccines, and antibiotics that help treat infections. The scary news is that these critters are getting stronger and resistant. In the future it may be more difficult to treat the same bacterial, virus, and fungal infections that we treat today.

This summer, this blog discussed viral and fungal infections and how easy they can be picked up by your feet. These infections are not usually deadly like the one in Contagion, but they can cause serious problems. Bacterial infections in the feet can also be dangerous. If they are not treated quickly and properly it is very possible that a toe, foot, or leg will have to have to be amputated. The bacteria that commonly infect the foot are Staphylococcus aureus, Group A streptococci, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is not important to know how to say these bacteria as it is to know that these bacteria are in our everyday environment. Some of these bacteria are living on your skin right now! A problem occurs when these critters get into your body. The body has natural defenses that fight off the bacteria, but many of us have conditions that weaken our immune system. Such conditions include diabetes, circulatory problems, HIV infection, and malnutrition. Some medications, like the ones used for joint pain, also weaken the immune system. Once in the body, bacteria can affect the tissue, muscle, and bone. If untreated, the bacteria can find its way into your bloodstream —this can be deadly!

Healthy, young people can also pick up bacterial infections. Scrapes or cuts from a rock or seashell, an ingrown toenail, or going to unsanitary pedicure parlors increases your risk of developing a bacterial infection. Common signs of a bacterial infection are a throbbing pain, pus, redness, and warmness. If you ever have these symptoms in your foot, come to Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, LLP immediately! We have locations at Howell, Edison, and Monroe, New Jersey. Do not think the problem will go away by itself because it may get worse. At Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center, a podiatrist will treat your infection correctly. The dead skin and tissue will be removed. Depending on how bad your foot is infected, your podiatrist might have to get other doctors involved and make a plan for your recovery.

No matter if you have a chronic disease or if you are healthy, there are things you can do to prevent bacteria from causing problems.

Wear shoes outside. Wearing shoes decreases the risk of causing injuries that can lead to bacteria entering your body.
If you have diabetes and/or circulatory problems, make sure you are seeing your podiatrist regularly to make sure your feet are healthy and free of wounds
If you suffer a serious foot injury, go see a podiatrist. Immediate treatment can prevent bacterial infections.
After foot surgery, follow all directions that your podiatrist gives you. Change foot dressings properly and take any antibiotics exactly as told.
Do not ignore a foot injury that is red, painful, warm, and has pus. Do not be embarrassed. These symptoms mean that it is very likely your injury is infected and you need podiatric care right away.

The movie Contagion was make believe, but bacterial foot infections are not. We are lucky to have antibiotics to treat infections, but some bacterial infections are very hard to treat and get rid of. Protect your feet and prevent bacteria from finding a home in your body.

By: Dr. Alison DeWaters, DPM

My Heel Hurts! Is a Podiatrist the Right Person to Treat It?

November 2nd, 2011

Whenever a new patient comes into the office, they almost always say, “I was not sure if I should have seen a podiatrist or someone else”. The podiatrists at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP are some of the most highly trained, caring professionals. There are many problems we see in our offices. Whether you are suffering from fungus toenails, heel pain, plantar warts or any other problem, the doctors at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP are able to treat you with courtesy and compassion.

Let’s talk about just some of the things that we treat in our office; Heel pain. As adults, it is common to suffer from this condition. Take for instance San Diego Chargers Tight End Antonio Gates, who in a recent game against the Tennessee Titan tore his plantar facia, which is also know as plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of the muscle band that runs along the bottom of our foot, connecting the heel to the ball of the foot. Inflammation of this band can be quite painful, even debilitating. With quick, proper treatment the symptoms and the underlying cause can be addressed. Initial treatment for heel pain is usually done with the use of cortisone injections, strappings and possibly night splints. The long term treatment for this is usually done with orthotics. Oral anti-inflammatory medications such as Motrin, Advil or Aleve can also be used. For very painful or long-standing pain, physical therapy or the use of shockwave treatment can also be used. If surgery is ultimately needed, the doctors can provide that care as well

Kids also suffer from heel pain, so don’t think it is only adults who suffer. If your child plays sports such as soccer, baseball, football, gymnastics or anything that has them on their feet, they too can suffer from heel pain. Let the doctors at Affiliated make the proper diagnosis

With offices conveniently located in Howell, Edison and Monroe, NJ, Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP has the latest diagnostic equipment for the treatment of heel pain from digital x-ray equipment to diagnostic ultrasound. With daytime and evening hours, we are able to accommodate all patients from pediatrics to geriatrics. So please, if you think you are experiencing plantar fasciitis, call us today or visit our website to make an appointment.

By: Dr. Alan Bass, DPM

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEON DR. ALAN BASS JOINS AFFILIATED FOOT AND ANKLE CENTER, LLP

October 24th, 2011

(Associated Press) Foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Alan Bass DPM, FACFOAM, RPh recently announced that he has joined Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP. When asked why he joined Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP he said “In today’s healthcare economy it is better to belong to a large group that can offer it’s patients an wide range of integrated services”. Dr. Bass will be practicing in the Howell, NJ office of Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP located at 4645 Route 9 North in Howell.

Dr. Bass will specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatments of conditions of the foot and ankle, and really loves to work with pediatrics and diabetic patients. When asked why he became a podiatrist Dr. Bass said, “After meeting a podiatrist, I realized that what I was doing at the time was not my calling and I am now truly happy helping people live their lives and getting them back on their feet”.

With 17 years of experience as a foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Bass looks forward to providing care for the Howell and the surrounding communities alongside the Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP TEAM.

Dr. Bass is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He earned his doctorate in Podiatric Medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his surgical residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bass or any of the other podiatrists at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP in Howell, please call (732) 905-1110 or visit their website at www.footdoctorsnj.com. Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP also has locations in Monroe and Edison, NJ and they can be reached at (732) 662-3050.

Why Does My Leg Hurt?

Recent Comments:

Winter Woes: Chilblains On Your Toes

Recent Comments:

Understanding Morton’s Neuroma; Dr. Varun (Ben) Gujral Discusses…

Recent Comments:

What is Core Stability? Valerie Gregory, MSPT, CKTP Discusses…

Recent Comments:

The Big Bag Theory: Is Your Heavy Bag Hurting Your Feet?

Recent Comments:

Are You Committing SHOEACIDE Like Victoria Beckham?

Recent Comments:

Attention Children (and Parents) of Howell; WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!

Recent Comments:

Beyond the Movies: Protecting Your Feet from Bacterial Infections

Recent Comments:

My Heel Hurts! Is a Podiatrist the Right Person to Treat It?

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FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEON DR. ALAN BASS JOINS AFFILIATED FOOT AND ANKLE CENTER, LLP

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